BROLIN, Willard A.
Portrait & Biographical Record Winnebago & Boone Cos., IL. Chicago: Biographical Pub. Co., 1892, p 671

Willard A. BROLIN, Secretary and Treasurer of the Skandia Furniture Company, has the honor of being a native-born citizen of Rockford [Winnebago County, IL], his birth having occurred in this city on 02 Jan 1865.  His parents, Charles and Eva (CARLSON) BROLIN, were both natives of Sweden, and when young people came to the U. S.  After locating in Rockford, they were married and have since been residents of this city, where they still make their home.  For some time the father was employed in the machine department of the N. C. Thompson Manufacturing Company, but has subsequently been a finisher in the cabinet works of the Skandia Furniture Company of Rockford.  He and his wife are members of the First Swedish Lutheran Church, and in politics he is a supporter of the principles of the Republican party.  Unto them were born a family of six children, but only two sons are now living:  Willard and Arthur.

Willard A. BROLIN is known as one of the enterprising young business men of Rockford.   His education was acquired in the public schools, and since he has attained his majority he has been engaged in doing clerical work.  He was employed for a time as agent for the East Side Illinois Central Railroad, and has been connected with several local enterprises.  He is a stockholder in the Skandia Furniture Company, and is also one of its Directors.

This corporation has its factory on North Second Street, on the east bank of the Rock River.  The business was established in 1889, and has been carried on successfully since.  They manufacture half-trees, bookcases, cylinder desks, ladies secretaries, extension tables, etc., employing 150 men.  They have a constantly increasing trade, of which the members of the firm are well deserving.  Mr. BROLIN is also a stockholder and Director of the Royal Mantel and Furniture Company; stockholder and Director in the Rockford Funiture and Undertaking Company; and has a third interest in the Oscar Larson Company, wholesale and retail dealers in fruit and confectionery.

Our subject and his brother reside at home with their parents.  They hold membership with the First Swedish Lutheran Church, and both exercise their right of franchise in support of the Republican party.  Our subject is an energetic and ambitious young man, and though now only 26 years of age, is already regarded as one of the leading young business men of the city.  Following out the course which he is now pursuing, he will undoubtedly make his life both useful and successful.

Submitted by Cathy Kubly.